Battle lines are being drawn across Germany to combat a horde of invaders — small but hungry voles that threaten to wreak economic chaos.

Farmers in central and northern Germany are appealing for financial help from the government to fight the furry multitude, which, after a mild winter, is already eating its way through newly planted sugar beet crop.

“Vole years”, as they are known, appear to be growing ever more common, with epidemics in 2004, 2007 and 2012. The 2007 invasion is thought to have cost the country €140 million.

The cannabis industry, driven by the easing of drug laws across the US, is turning its sights on a new group of potential users — ill and elderly dogs.

The “pet-pot” market is new but shows promise, its pioneers say. Products already available include “Treat-ibles” — canine snacks infused with CBD, or cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis family.

Auntie Dolores Kitchen, the company behind Treat-ibles, suggests that CBD could be used on dogs to suppress nausea, induce appetite and to manage pain and mood disorders.